In the next few weeks many of us will be involved in work parties, shopping, visits with our friends and families, and special religious gatherings. These various festivities, culminating with Christmas Day, recalls to my mind an article I read called the “The Spirit of Christmas – The Best Gifts Cost Nothing”. Christmas is about family, friends, brothers and sisters and children. It’s about the “spirit” of Christmas - something we cannot buy but is priceless to our loved ones. Here are some of the “gift” suggestions that were in the article:The Gift of Not Judging People. Forget the mistakes of family, friends and coworkers; concentrate on the positive instead of the negative. The Gift of Time. Don’t count the years in which you haven’t seen or visited people because of busy lifestyles. Make the time you have together quality time. Put away the phone and listen.The Gift of Acceptance. Be thankful to anyone who gives you anything. It is not what they give; it is the thought that counts.The Gift of Forgiveness. Forget hatred and resentment. Swallow your pride; it won’t give you a stomach ache. The Gift of Friendship. Don’t put on fancy clothes or fancy airs to impress people. Put a smile on your face, it encourages warmth and understanding.The Gift of Sharing. Don’t spoil yourself or fall victim to self-indulgence. Think of the less fortunate and share with them.The Gift of Kindness. Treat everyone with courtesy and respect. Show appreciation for people who make an effort to encourage you. The Gift of Satisfaction. Leave envy and jealousy in the closet. People that have more than you may have material wealth, but it doesn’t always bring happiness.The Gift of Peace of Mind. Give up anger, depression, anxiety, and replace them with joy, enlightenment and cheer. The Gift of Unconditional Love. Harness the most powerful force in the universe. Make it from the heart. Whatever religion inspires you to help others is the right religion.Brethren, each new day is a gift. Do what you can, for whoever you can, on a daily basis, not just for Christmas. The best gifts in the world are loyalty to your friends, forgiveness of others, service to people in need, and in general, being good to all people.Have a safe and happy holiday season. I look forward to seeing everyone in the new year.

Welcome to our two newest members, Bro. Sonny and Bro. Vieira, who were initiated at November’s regular meeting. We look forward to your advancement within the craft.Bro. Barnwell presented a Masonic Minute of education about Saluting the Worshipful Master and the Sign of Fidelity.Our December Meeting with be the Christmas Social. I look forward to as many members attending as possible. Please contact Bro. Junior Warden for more details.